Greater Anglia introduces new fleet of modern trains on Gainsborough Line to and from Sudbury

A new fleet of longer trains were put into service for the first time this week, running from Sudbury to Marks Tey.

Greater Anglia has replaced its old diesel train stock on the Gainsborough Line with new, longer, three-carriage trains, powered by diesel and electricity.

The first of the new trains ran on Tuesday from Sudbury at 5.30am – and South Suffolk MP James Cartlidge was up bright and early to ensure he was among the first commuters to travel on the new train’s maiden day in service.

Speaking after journey, he said: “This is a major step forward for Sudbury. The new rolling stock offers extra comfort and capacity, both in terms of general space and extra seating, with charging ports and USB docks.

“I was also joined by Mark Bills, director of Gainsborough’s House. It is worth remembering the wider picture of needing to regenerate Sudbury so that it can attract more visitors to sustain its local shops.

“With Mark’s ambitious plans to turn Gainsborough’s House into a national centre for the arts, a new and more attractive rail service to Sudbury could not be better timed.

“There is much about our regional railways that needs significant improvement, but we should recognise today as a very positive step forward for south Suffolk.”

The new trains have more seats, free fast wifi, air conditioning, better passenger information screens and improved accessibility, including a retractable step.

Greater Anglia said the new stock has lower emissions, making the trains greener, with modern brakes releasing less brake dust into the environment.

Ian McConnell, Greater Anglia franchise and programme director, said: “Today is an important milestone in the roll-out of our bi-mode trains which are replacing our old diesel trains.

“Over the coming weeks, the transition to all new trains will be complete on Greater Anglia’s diesel rural routes.”

He added: “The new trains are longer and equipped with everything a 21st century rail passenger expects to make their journey better. They will also, ultimately, bring us improved reliability.”